Outer Hebrides Island Hopping

7 Days & 6 Nights 5 Read 6 reviews

Experience the unique landscapes and Gaelic culture of the Outer Hebrides
Sail past Kisimul Castle in Barra's picturesque Castlebay Harbour
Tranquil white sand beaches and turquoise seas of Barra and the Uists
The mysterious Neolithic standing stones of Callanish
Local gin, with a hint of kelp, and deliciously fresh seafood

Discover the far flung island chain of the Outer Hebrides on a self-drive discovery tour. This remote archipelago off Scotland's west coast is packed with incredible beaches, wildlife-watching opportunities, and fascinating historical sites dating back to Neolithic times. Undertake an island-hopping adventure from the mainland to Barra, in the southern reaches of the archipelago, through the Uists, and north to Harris and Lewis before returning to the mainland. Explore the unique Hebridean landscapes and traditions; from beaches washed by crystal clear surf and bordered by wildflower-strewn dunes, to centuries-old standing stones, and local fishing and crofting communities linked to the land. Spend evenings sampling local cuisine and planning the next day's adventure with our carefully curated information pack brimming with expertise.

What To Expect

Travel restrictions and resources, to and from any destination

The ideal trip for experiencing the best of the unique culture, ancient history and incredible landscapes that the Outer Hebrides have to offer. There's something for everyone from beach strolls to wildlife watching opportunities and ample time to explore world-renowned Neolithic sites. Allow our local expertise to guide you on a hassle-free journey of cultural discovery. Experience island hospitality at it's finest, not just at your accommodations, but as you tour Harris' gin distillery and sample Hebridean cuisine; products of the long-standing crofting and fishing way of life in the islands. So why not visit and discover the richness of Gaelic island culture for yourself?

Tour Type:

Discovery | Think of it as a ‘local’s guide’ to the best of the region. It includes a combination of activity and transportation to give you the freedom to explore and cover more ground at your own pace. We do all the research and organisation for you. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy!

Activity:

Self Drive | Take the wheel and explore an area at your own pace taking in places and highlights that our travel experts recommend.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Islands

Navigation

Your information pack will include a day-by-day itinerary, with recommended driving routes between overnight stops, as well as recommended detours and must-see sights and attractions. You can use Google maps to navigate the route on your phone, but as mobile signal is limited we recommend using your car's sat-nav and/or a road atlas. If you are hiring a car with us we include sat-nav as standard as internet signal on the islands isn't always reliable.

Accommodations

Overnight in hand-picked small hotels, B&B's and guesthouses, all of which have been chosen to ensure you experience warm Scottish hospitality at its best! We regularly use the properties listed in the itinerary but may use alternative options if these are unavailable.

Single Rooms

This holiday is available to solo travellers but as all our tours are priced per person based on two sharing there is a single supplement payable to cover the additional costs. If you require single rooms within your party we will, of course, try to accommodate your request subject to availability.

Meals

Breakfast is included each morning and normally consists of a continental buffet with tea and coffee, fresh fruits, yoghurt, cereals, eggs and bread with jams. Often also on the menu are cooked options like freshly made porridge, a traditional cooked Scottish breakfast and smoked fish with scrambled eggs.

We don't include lunch and dinner so you are free to choose from the available options. Your information pack includes details and recommendations of convenient lunch stops, cosy cafes and restaurants along the way. The food scene in Scotland has improved significantly over the past few decades, so now you'll find a range of options with everything from award-winning fish and chips to casual restaurant and cafe menus showcasing delicious locally-sourced produce. Seafood in particular is a staple in the Outer Hebrides.

The Outer Hebrides remain a traditional region of the country meaning that many shops and restaurants can be closed on a Sunday. We recommend buying picnic lunches/snacks and making dinner reservations ahead of time particularly on Sundays to avoid disappointment.

Additional Nights

You can add additional nights wherever you please along the route. If you are travelling from further afield we highly recommend additional nights on arrival in Oban and on departure from Ullapool.

Included

6 Nights in 3 and 4* B&B's, guesthouses and small hotels
6 Breakfasts
Ferry crossings as per your itinerary
Detailed information pack brimming with our local knowledge
Our daily recommendations for places to see and visit
Our daily recommendations for top places to eat and drink
24/7 Emergency support from our UK office

Excluded

Car hire (available as an optional extra)
Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Entrance to attractions/historic sights
Personal equipment
Travel insurance (required)

Extras

Additional nights at the start/end or along the route
Car hire (available as an optional extra)

When To Go

You can start this tour on any day of the week from the beginning of April until mid-October, subject to availability. In March and from mid-October on, start days are limited to accommodate the ferry timetables (no departures on Thursdays and Saturdays during this time). The busiest times of the year are around Easter and May when accommodations fill up quickly, so book as early as possible if you are planning to travel then. If you travel before Easter, and in October it is worth noting that some attractions may either be closed, have limited access, or may open later and close a little earlier in the day. We always recommend checking the links in our information pack for up-to-date opening times.

During the low season - March to early April and October - the Scottish weather tends to be more unpredictable and is often colder and rainier. However, attractions and popular viewpoints will generally be quieter.

Weather and Climate

Scotland enjoys a temperate climate, meaning it's relatively mild all year, except in winter when temperatures dip below 0 degrees Celsius and it snows regularly in the Highlands. The islands are renowned for variable weather so you should be prepared for everything; from 'dreich' days (a Scottish word for rainy days that are a bit bleak) to days with beautiful blue skies and warmer weather. Whatever the weather it tends to be breezy so spare layers are always recommended.

From the end of April to October average daily temperatures vary from 7-14 degrees Celsius. Monthly rainfall varies from 11-17 mm per month on averarge. Generally, May, June and August are the driest months, but July to September are the mildest. To see the machair landscape (wildflower-covered dunes) in bloom the best time to travel is from the beginning of May through to June.

Getting to the Start

The Outer Hebrides are located off Scotland's northwest coast. Your trip includes ferry crossings from Oban (on the mainland) to Barra the most southern large island in the archipelago. If you have a preferred sailing time for your ferry journeys, please let us know at the time of booking. Once the ferry journeys are confirmed, we can't guarantee new amendments or changes to the sailing times.

By Road: As this is a self-drive tour it's easiest to access Oban by road from Glasgow by driving north on the A82 to Tyndrum then west on the A85 (2 hr 20 mins). Alternatively, from Edinburgh follow the M9 west, to join the A84 and onto the A85 (3 hr). If travelling from Inverness, drive southwest on the A82, A828, and A85 to reach Oban (2 hr 45 mins).

Public Transport: If arriving in Glasgow or Edinburgh by public transport, and renting a car please see the Traveline Scotland website for timetables and fares and more information regarding public transport in Scotland. The cities are well-linked across the UK, Europe, and beyond by flying into either international airports. They are just over an hour apart by road, and it doesn't take much longer to travel between the two by an express bus or train service. Oban has a train station and is well-served by bus links to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Check the Scotrail and Citylink Bus websites for more details.

Car Rental

We don't include car rental in the cost of our discovery tours to keep things flexible as we realise many people may wish to use their own car. If you opt to book car rental through us, we have a partnership with Europcar and can arrange this easily for you. As standard we book an Economy category car (suitable for up to 4 people) with included comprehensive insurance and sat-nav, prices are on a request basis. Please just let us know when booking if you would like to upgrade your car, and where you would like to collect your hire car as this can be tailored to suit your needs.

Getting from the End

The Calmac ferry from Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis to Ullapool on the mainland (2.5 hrs) is inlcuded in your trip. If you have time we recommend spending some time in the unique mountain landscapes of surrounding Torridon and Sutherland.

Ullapool is a small town on the north west coast of Scotland, and is just a 1hr 15 min drive from Inverness making this a great add on to your trip. Otherwise, it's a 4 hr 15 min drive south to Glasgow or 4hrs 10 min to Edinburgh. There are plenty of fuel stations along the way, and some good places to split the journey are Inverness, Aviemore, Dunkeld, Pitlochry and Perth.

General Information

On confirmation of your booking, you will receive a personalised itinerary and comprehensive information pack. This carefully curated pack, designed with our own local knowledge and expertise, will include notes on the must-see places and attractions to stop at en route, and our suggestions for the best places to eat and drink.

Ferry Journeys

The following Calmac car ferry journeys are included in your trip:

Oban, mainland to Castlebay, Bara (5 hours)
Ardmhor, Barra to Eriskay/South Uist (40 minutes)
Berneray/North Uist to Leverburgh, Harris (1 hour)
Stornoway, Lewis to Ullapool, mainland (2.5 hours)

Please note that vehicle and passenger check-in is 45 minutes prior to the sailing departure time. All the boats have toilets and sheltered passenger lounges. Some larger boats on the long crossings also have a restaurant, cafe, bar and small shop selling gifts, magazines/newspapers, drinks and confectionary.

If you have a preferred sailing time for your ferry journeys, please let us know at the time of booking. Once the ferry journeys are confirmed, we can't guarantee new amendments or changes to the sailing times.

Car Rental

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.

How do I navigate?

Where can I stop off to visit?

Where can I eat?

What are the roads like?

Can I add extra nights?

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Oban and ferry to Barra Day 2 Explore Barra and ferry to South Uist Day 3 Explore North and South Uist

Today allow time to relax and adjust to the laid-back pace of life and Gaelic island culture. The Uists are a land where time seems to stand still. The landscape of moors and lochs is overlooked by peaks jutting from a hilly spine, and the beaches of the west are strands of silver sand washed by crystal clear surf. Hardy ponies roam the landscape and are a charming sight when spotted by the roadside.

As you make your way north from South to North Uist, via Benbecula's causeways, pass through a wild landscape of lochs and heather peppered with ancient standing stones. The east coast of the island is indented with rocky bays, but the west coast is blessed with miles of glorious beaches. Take time to visit the Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve, which preserves not only the island’s rare flora and fauna but the community's crofting way of life. Make sure to stop at art galleries and potters along the way, you may just uncover a soon to be treasured memento of your stay.

Overnight Lochmaddy

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Redburn House | Bed and breakfast

Redburn House is a B&B in Lochmaddy, the main township of the wonderful Hebridean Isle of North Uist. All rooms are equipped with ensuite facilities, TVs, welcome tea trays, and plenty of clothes space. A Scottish style self-service continental buffet breakfast is provided - subject to local availability, they provide a selection of fresh fruits, breads, pancakes, cheeses, cold meats, toast, preserves, cereals, and yoghurts.

Ben View B&B | Bed and breakfast

Ben View B&B in North Uist sits on the Hebridean Way. A few minutes from St Kilda viewpoint and Balranald nature reserve. Ben View is a family business run by Paul and Lisa Prichard. They offer double rooms and a wide range of services to make your stay more comfortable.

The Old Shop House | Bed and breakfast

This family run accommodation on the beautiful Hebridean island of North Uist has been open for over 20 years. Situated on the west side of the island, it is ideal for bird watching, just three miles from Balranald Bird Reserve.

Day 4 Ferry to Harris and Lewis and stroll along Luskentyre's beautiful beach

This morning a 1 hour ferry journey brings you from North Uist to the Isle of Harris. Harris and Lewis are one landmass but are referred to as two separate islands; the southern, hillier half is referred to as the Isle of Harris, while the flat moors of the north are known as the Isle of Lewis. The topography of Harris gave rise to its name ‘Na Hearadh’ from the old Norse meaning ‘high land’. The island's west coast possesses some of the most beautiful beaches in the British Isles, wander their white sandy expanses bounded by the joyful colours of the wildflower scattered dunes.

En route from Leverburgh to Tarbert pause to stroll along the stunning white sands of Luskentyre, an iconic and much-photographed beach, affording spectacular views of the island's mountains. Look out for the white horses that graze freely nearby. Tarbert's Isle of Harris Distillery is also a recommended stop for any gin-lovers, why not take a tour and buy one of their bottles as a souvenir? Alternatively, for a keepsake that will stand the test of time visit the Grosebay store and workshop of the iconic Harris Tweed brand.

Overnight Tarbert

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Harris Hotel | Hotel

The Harris Hotel has been family-owned and run for over 100 years. The hotel has 23 en-suite bedrooms, most of which are quite different, in keeping with the character of the building. The rooms have undergone refurbishment, some in a more modern style and others retaining the more traditional feel of the hotel. Enjoy only the best and freshest of local ingredients in the restaurant, including fresh fish, shellfish, lamb, beef and venison.

Ardhasaig House | Hotel

Dating back to 1904 many of the building's features, such as the purple-tiled fireplace in the lounge and the main staircase, have been retained and contribute to its distinctive character. The ensuite rooms are tastefully decorated with quality furnishings, some of which are genuine antiques. Your sense of seclusion from the stresses of the outside world is enhanced by the absence of television reception in the locality and all rooms are TV-free!

Day 5 Explore Harris and Lewis

For wildlife enthusiasts, we recommend a short walk to the Eagle Observatory on the island’s south. With more than 20 pairs of golden eagles making their home in the mountains of Harris you're bound to spot one with a pair of binoculars and a little patience. However, if sitting still for too long isn't your strong-suit then a visit to the lighthouse of Eilean Glas on Scalpay is a wonderful way to spend the morning. An easy-going path leads you to the 30 metre high red and white striped lighthouse, complete with foghorn and incredible outlook.

As you make your way north we suggest a detour to the island of Great Bernera for a visit to the white sands of Bosta Beach, and nearby restored Iron Age House. A visit to the Callanish Standing Stones en route to Stornoway is also highly recommended! The two main stone circles at this mysterious 5000-year-old Neolithic site are one of the most popular places to visit in the Outer Hebrides and shouldn't be missed.

This evening you'll overnight in Stornoway, the capital of the Outer Hebrides. Enjoy freshly caught seafood for dinner then seek out a pub with traditional live music to while away the evening.

Overnight Stornoway

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Jannel B&B | 4 Star | Bed and breakfast

Located in a quiet residential part of Stornoway, this 4* Bed & Breakfast makes for the perfect retreat. With welcoming hosts and beautifully decorated spacious rooms to relax in, you are bound to have a great stay.

No.Three B&B | Bed and breakfast

You are assured the warmest of welcomes at the No. Three B&B in Stornoway. This lovely accommodation has all one would require for a most comfortable stay. Close to the town centre and within easy driving distance of the natural wonders of Lewis you are in the perfect location to enjoy all the island has to offer.

Borve House Hotel | 4 Star | Hotel

Situated on the north west coast of Lewis, just a 25 minute drive from Stornoway, this comfortable hotel is a perfect base to explore the both the Callanish standing stones and the northern most tip of the Butt of Lewis. The cosy rooms have everything you'll need to relax after a day's walking. Alongside a comprehensive selection of wining and dining options, the bar stocks a wide range of local beers and malts whiskies - perfect for toasting your stay on the Outer Hebrides.

Day 6 Explore Harris and Lewis

Today allow more time for exploring Lewis, the largest of the Western Isles, scattered with world-famous archaeological sites within a landscape of wild moorland and magnificent coastline. The preserved 'Blackhouses', white-washed stone cottages with thatched roofs, at Gearrannan with restored interiors imitating the traditional dwellings make for an interesting cultural highlight. Some of these cottages were inhabited until as late as the 1970s! Nearby you'll find the well-preserved ruins of the impressive 10 metre high 1st century Dun Carloway Broch, once a communal and defensive structure that served to protect residents from raids.

At the island's most northerly tip, the "Butt of Lewis", marvel at the lighthouse's dramatic outlook over hidden sandy coves and dark cliffs dropping steeply into the wild Atlantic Ocean. Spend time watching seabirds soar on the wind before heading back to Stornoway, perhaps stopping off at Garry Beach to see the Tolsta sea stacks. Alternatively, if the weather calls for an indoor activity visit Stornoway's Lews Castle, a Victorian castle that has been converted to a museum and cultural centre with a cafe, or visit the An Lanntair Centre for the arts and cultural hub with cafe bar in the town centre.

Overnight Stornoway

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Jannel B&B | 4 Star | Bed and breakfast

Located in a quiet residental part of Stornoway, the largest town on the Outer Hebrides, this 4* B&B makes for the perfect retreat. With welcoming hosts and a beautifully decorated spacious rooms to relax in of an evening you're bound to have a great stay.

No.Three B&B | Bed and breakfast

You are assured the warmest of welcomes at the No.Three B&B in Stornoway. This lovely accommodation has all one would require for a most comfortable stay. Close to the town centre and within easy driving distance of the natural wonders of Lewis you are in the perfect location to enjoy all the island has to offer.

Borve House Hotel | 4 Star | Hotel

Day 7 Ferry to Ullapool and onward travel

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